Alligator found swimming in Wisconsin lake

July 6 (UPI) -- Animal rescuers in Wisconsin are trying to find the owner of an unusual animal found swimming in a lake -- an alligator.

J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue said the alligator was spotted in Long Lake and was captured by the Osceola Boat Patrol, which turned the reptile over to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

Conservation wardens then brought the gator to the animal rescue group.

"Legally, we are able to take in alligators up to 30 inches long, and this guy is much less than that. We are fortunate that we are in a position to help this animal either be legally reunited with his owner or sent to a sanctuary," John Moyles of JRAAR told WFRV-TV.

The rescue group said the alligator will be kept for a week to give its owner time to claim it. The alligator will be rehomed at an accredited sanctuary if it is not claimed.